Whether you are purchasing a new home or upgrading your existing home, one of the most common questions homeowners have is what to do when they are experiencing sagging floors. There are a number of reasons that floors in older homes may sag. Some of the common causes include soil movement, insect damage and structural damage. Oftentimes, sagging floors can be repaired. However, there are times when a more permanent solution is necessary.
Structural damage
Having uneven floors is an annoyance, but it can also be a sign of structural damage in your old house. If you are considering buying an older home, make sure you are aware of the potential costs of fixing uneven floors.
Some old homes have uneven floors for a number of reasons, but one of the most common reasons is a failing foundation. A failing foundation can cause floors to sag, or even break. A faulty foundation will also require more expensive repairs.
Other structural issues associated with older homes include framing, beams and windows. These issues can be addressed by hiring a structural engineer. Identifying and fixing these issues before they cause more damage will save you money in the long run.
If your home has uneven floors, there are a few things you can do to correct them. First, you can hire a home inspector to inspect your home. They will identify the problem, and provide you with an estimate of the cost to repair it.
Foundation damage
Typical problems with an old house’s foundation are cracks, buckling walls, and uneven floors. These issues can be caused by poor design, poor construction, and natural disasters. Sagging floors are a common symptom of these issues.
Sagging floors can also occur in older homes, particularly those with crawl spaces. The sagging floor can be a sign of more serious foundation damage, such as missing or damaged support beams.
There are a number of factors that contribute to a sagging floor, including poor drainage, expansive soil, or inadequately compacted soil. Expansive soil expands when it absorbs moisture and shrinks when it dries.
Uneven floors on the first floor can also be an indication of foundation problems. Sagging first-floor joists can indicate structural damage to the joists beneath the floor. A cracked foundation can be seen through gaps in concrete, and can also be seen through a sloping crack in the wall.
Insect damage
Termites and wood rot are two of the most common causes of sagging floors. Old houses are typically defined as those built before 1920. They tend to wear over time, resulting in sagging floors and structural issues.
Termites are small insects that feed on wood and damage the structural integrity of the house. They leave evidence in the form of mud tubes and chewed sawdust.
In addition to termites, wood-boring beetles are another culprit. These beetles live in very dry wood. They are typically found in basements and laundry rooms. They have reddish-brown to black bodies and a distinctive head. They lay eggs on the ends of boards. They can also be found in areas with a high level of moisture.
Another common cause of sagging floors is water damage. Water damage can occur from a leak, which weakens the wood. If water is not properly handled, water damage can lead to rot. If you’re not sure if you have a leak, it’s best to call a professional.
Soil movement
Having sagging floors in an old house can be scary. In fact, it can cause many problems, including falls, trips, and other injuries. Luckily, there are ways to fix sagging floors. By understanding what to look for, you can better identify the problem and make the right decisions.
One of the most common causes of sagging floors in an old house is settlement. This occurs when the soil under the house expands and contracts with moisture. The best way to avoid sagging floors is to make sure that the soil is compacted.
Soil movement causes foundation piers to move and shift. This may cause floor problems, including bowing walls and sticking windows. If this occurs, a professional may be able to fix the issue.
Another cause of sagging floors is a problem with the joists. This can be caused by rot, termites, or other issues. If your floor joists sag, you may need to replace them. Depending on the extent of the damage, the cost of repairing them can range from about $1,000 to $10,000.